Thermometer Challenge

Back to Unit 1

Back to Honors Chemistry

Vee lab Information

In your first challenge lab, you must apply our discussion of precion & accuracy to an analysis of our own lab equipment. You'll also get an introduction to our computer lab interface software "Logger Pro".

Focus Questions:

1. Which is the most precise thermometer: the alcohol-filled, the "Enviro-Saf", the micro-, or the temperature probe?

2. Which is the most accurate thermometer: the alcohol-filled, the "Enviro-Saf", the micro-, or the temperature probe?

Requirements:

• Each team must collect data using all 3 types of thermometers.
• The class must collect & share data from at least 8 thermometers of each type.
• Your analysis must include the mean boiling points, avg. deviations, and avg. error for each type of thermometer.
• The class must choose 2 temps. to collect data for, neither of which depend on a thermometer for accuracy. One must be the boiling point of water.

Procedure Guidelines:

Liquid-filled thermometers sometimes develop separations in the column of liquid, making them inaccurate. So always check for separations before using any liquid-filled thermometer. If you find any, bring it to your instructor. When setting up the computer-interfaced temperature probe, always set up & turn on the ULI before starting the MacTemp program.